Festive Holiday Antipasto Cream Cheese Log Recipe
A festive and flavorful holiday appetizer, this Antipasto Cream Cheese Log combines creamy cheese with a vibrant mix of olives, peppers, and herbs. Perfect for entertaining, it’s easy to prepare ahead and serves beautifully with crostini or fresh veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mixed green and black olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup peppadew peppers or roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften, making it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the olives, peppadew or roasted red peppers, shred the cheese if not pre-shredded, finely chop the parsley and mince the garlic if using. Reserve a small portion of these ingredients to use as garnish later.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the chopped olives, peppers, shredded cheese, parsley, minced rosemary, garlic (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Log: Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the cream cheese mixture onto the center of the wrap and shape it into a log by rolling the plastic wrap tightly around it. Twist the ends of the wrap to secure and seal the shape.
- Chill the Log: Refrigerate the wrapped cream cheese log for at least 1 hour to firm up, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Unwrap and Garnish: After chilling, carefully unwrap the log and place it on your serving board. Decorate the top with the reserved chopped olives, peppers, cheese, parsley, and rosemary sprigs for a festive appearance.
- Serve: Present the antipasto cream cheese log with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The garlic is optional; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Use peppadew peppers for a sweet and slightly spicy kick, or roasted red peppers for a milder taste.
- Can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to fully develop.
- Serve chilled but allow to sit a few minutes at room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
- Great for holiday parties, potlucks, and casual gatherings.